Looking back over previous posts I noticed one from early November. It pretty much stated the very lesson God is currently teaching me (again!). It raised a chuckle and thankfulness that God is willing to remind me of the principles I should already be applying to life.
When life feels out of control or when I feel overwhelmed with my list of responsibilities I turn to God and ask for help. Guess what He usually tells me? Life feels crazy when I forget to prioritize Him.
I still need to edit my book. It’s getting there, but not as fast as I’d like. I like to keep up on my housework. I enjoy playing with the kids and not feeling too busy or stressed to enjoy them. I have a column to which I contribute, a speaking engagement coming up, and article deadlines looming. Not to mention this blog…
For the last few days I’ve once again taken the time to spend quality time with God in the morning instead of just the frantic few minutes that creep up in the midst of chaos. Instead of flying into my day at break neck speed I’ve set the laundry aside, left the dishes in the sink, and the beds unmade and eased into the day with God, my bible and a caffeinated hot beverage.
Now it’s 10am. My blog is almost updated. The beds are made. The laundry is done. The kids are playing. I haven’t made dinner, but I know what we are having. The dishes are still in the sink but it’s not bothering me as much as usual.
I’m not sure how all this was accomplished considering we slept a half hour later than usual and I spent twice as much time with the Lord as normal. I believe God is blessing my efforts. I believe He is happy that I chose Him first and now He’s helping me efficiently finish my tasks.
I don’t expect everyday to go this well. Some days the dishes may still be in the sink at dinnertime and yesterday the beds were not made at all. But guess what? I survived. At the end of the day what matters is not now much I accomplished, but spending time in a manner that pleases God. How that looks might be different in each household. In ours, it means I need to relax and let the little stuff go and focus on what God want me to do.
A lesson I seem to learn over and over again.
Thanks Stac. That one hit me hard the first time and again today… but seriously you make your beds… who does that?? Just kidding. Thanks for the great reminder to put the Lord first.
For some reason, Jess, an unmade bed stresses me out. If nothing else is done but the beds are made I feel better. Odd, isn’t it?
Dear Stacey, As I read your note I am listening to a praise and worship tape and they are singing
Allleluia. As I too have let my quiet times slip by these last few days. Only again realize how I miss that presence of stillness and His guidance through the day. Isn’t wonderful that He will gently remind us of what is really important in our life.
Sending you hug, love and prayers, Carol
It’s so easy to get busy and bump worship and God to the back burner, isn’t it? Thankfully He calls us back and doesn’t let us wander too far.
Oh man can I relate!!
And a lesson we ALL need to hear and take to heart. Thanks Stacey!
I need to hear it to (more often then I’d like at admit!).